Gender and Sexuality Perception Study Material
Sexual Dysfunctions
These are any sexual disorder characterized by repeated issues in one or more phases of the
sexual-response cycle.
Causes of Sexual Dysfunctions
1. Biological
a. Age
This is a problem for both men and women.
Younger men have erections faster than older men because they are capable of
leading a healthy lifestyle and avoiding chronic diseases because their bodies are
stronger.
b. Illnesses
Individuals suffering from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are more likely to
experience sexual dysfunction.
High blood pressure damages blood vessel linings and causes arteries to harden and
narrow (atherosclerosis), limiting blood flow. This means that less blood can flow to
the penis.
c. Sexually Transmitted Infections (e.g. chlamydia, HIV, herpes)
d. Use of drugs, medications and alcohol
Antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, antiepileptic drugs, diuretics and high blood
pressure drugs can lessen sexual desire/libido.
Hormone levels are affected by alcohol abuse. It reduces testosterone levels,
reducing sexual drive and function.
Long-term alcohol abuse can harm the nervous system, which is in charge of sending
the signals that cause an erection.
2. Psychological
During intercourse, distractions such as unwanted noises or "presences" can "kill
the mood." Some people are overly concerned about their sex results, which
causes them to lose focus on the moment and increase their fears about their
performance. This is known as spectatoring.
Past or told sex experiences may have an impact on one's performance.
Individuals who have a negative body image may have low sexual self-esteem,
which makes them avoid sexual activity.
People with psychological disorders are more likely to have poor interpersonal
relationships, which leads them to avoid sexual activity or perform poorly.
Sexual Dysfunctions Study Material
Sexual Dysfunctions
These are any sexual disorder characterized by repeated issues in one or more phases of the
sexual-response cycle.
Causes of Sexual Dysfunctions
1. Biological
a. Age
This is a problem for both men and women.
Younger men have erections faster than older men because they are capable of
leading a healthy lifestyle and avoiding chronic diseases because their bodies are
stronger.
b. Illnesses
Individuals suffering from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are more likely to
experience sexual dysfunction.
High blood pressure damages blood vessel linings and causes arteries to harden and
narrow (atherosclerosis), limiting blood flow. This means that less blood can flow to
the penis.
c. Sexually Transmitted Infections (e.g. chlamydia, HIV, herpes)
d. Use of drugs, medications and alcohol
Antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, antiepileptic drugs, diuretics and high blood
pressure drugs can lessen sexual desire/libido.
Hormone levels are affected by alcohol abuse. It reduces testosterone levels,
reducing sexual drive and function.
Long-term alcohol abuse can harm the nervous system, which is in charge of sending
the signals that cause an erection.
2. Psychological
During intercourse, distractions such as unwanted noises or "presences" can "kill
the mood." Some people are overly concerned about their sex results, which
causes them to lose focus on the moment and increase their fears about their
performance. This is known as spectatoring.
Past or told sex experiences may have an impact on one's performance.
Individuals who have a negative body image may have low sexual self-esteem,
which makes them avoid sexual activity.
People with psychological disorders are more likely to have poor interpersonal
relationships, which leads them to avoid sexual activity or perform poorly.
Sexual Dysfunctions Study Material